Better Business Bureau warns about package scams

MISSOULA, Mont. — People are receiving packages they didn’t order from Amazon and other online retailers, and while it may seem like fun to receive boxes of free stuff right on your doorstep, the Better Business Bureau says it could be a scam called teeth cleaning.

Unethical online businesses, usually third-party sellers, will find your address and information online, possibly through the dark web, then use your address to ship products, and then post fake positive reviews about the products you ordered.

“What’s happening is they’re artificially inflating sales,” said Cameron Nakashima of the Better Business Bureau.

Since they place the actual order and the item is delivered, most online stores display these purchases as “confirmed.”

“They can impersonate you and leave a positive review of the product. Thus, they increase sales and improve their online reputation in a very dubious way,” says Nakashima.

Why should viewers be careful if they receive these items?

“Here are three alarm bells that should ring when you receive a package you didn’t order. So, the first thing to be aware of is that this could be a sign of a data breach,” Nakashima said.

As you dig deeper, you may learn that this may have some financial implications.

“If they’re using your name and it’s related to fraudulent purchases that could have a negative impact on your credit score, and if they’re using a compromised account, it’s clear they can tap into your account and use your payment methods. – Nakashima explained.

And finally, if you don’t report them, you could become a target for future scammers.

“Okay, the scammer knows that this person is willing to play along. I’m just going to start using his personal information for other purposes as well. Therefore, it is very important that you communicate this in advance,” says Nakashima.

If you receive a package from a teeth cleaning scam, there are three things you need to do.

Notify the seller, check your accounts for recent orders, and clear and update your information online.

The Better Business Bureau offers guides, tools and additional information to help you stay safe and smart when shopping online.